The Youth Arise Movement has condemned the arrest and detention of human rights activist, Omoyele Sowore, by the Nigerian Police Force.

Sowore was detained on August 6, 2025, after responding to a police invitation.

The movement, in a press release signed by its National Coordinator, Comrade Babatunde Ademola, and issued to The Guardian on Friday, demanded his immediate and unconditional release, citing “violations of his rights under Nigeria’s 1999 Constitution and international human rights law.”

He called on the Inspector General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun and relevant authorities to uphold the rule of law, protect civil liberties, and ensure security agencies act within legal bounds.

According to the group, Sowore’s continued “persecution” affects not just him, but all Nigerians believing in freedom, equity, and a better future.

“The police are a constitutional body and civil organisation that is not above criticism. Law enforcement powers should not be used by the police to deter its critics and watchdogs.
“The case of Sowore shows just how far the authorities in Nigeria can go to silence peaceful dissent,” he decried.